Vatican City – (Area: 0.44 sq km)

Credit: iStockSet within the heart of Rome, Vatican City is not only the smallest country in the world, but also the spiritual and administrative centre of the Roman Catholic Church. Home to iconic landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, this tiny city-state is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and religious significance.

Monaco – (Area: 1.95 sq km)

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Perched along the French Riviera, Monaco is synonymous with luxury, glamour, and opulence. Despite its small size, this principality boasts a thriving casino scene, prestigious Grand Prix circuit, and stunning Mediterranean coastline, making it a playground for the rich and famous.

Nauru – (Area: 21 sq km)

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Located in the central Pacific Ocean, Nauru stands as an isolated island nation renowned for its stunning tropical landscapes and rich aquatic biodiversity. Once a bustling hub for phosphate mining, the island now offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in pristine natural beauty, characterized by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine fauna and serene palm-lined shores.

Tuvalu – (Area: 26 sq km)

Credit: iStockComprising a cluster of nine atolls, Tuvalu is a remote paradise brimming with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colourful marine life. Despite facing environmental challenges such as rising sea levels, this South Pacific nation remains a haven for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

San Marino – (Area: 61 sq km)

Credit: iStockTucked away in the Apennine Mountains, San Marino is one of the oldest sovereign states in the world, dating back to the 4th century. Surrounded by Italy, this picturesque microstate is renowned for its mediaeval architecture, panoramic views, and rich cultural heritage.

Liechtenstein – (Area: 160 sq km)

Credit: iStockNestled between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a small yet prosperous principality known for its stunning Alpine landscapes, charming villages, and low tax rates. Despite its diminutive size, it boasts a high standard of living and a thriving economy.

Marshall Islands – (Area: 181 sq km)

Credit: iStockScattered across the Pacific Ocean, the Marshall Islands are a tropical paradise blessed with palm-fringed beaches, turquoise lagoons, and World War II relics. Rich in history and culture, this island nation offers a glimpse into traditional Micronesian life.

Saint Kitts and Nevis – (Area: 261 sq km)

Credit: iStockLocated in the Caribbean, Saint Kitts and Nevis is a twin-island federation renowned for its lush rainforests, sugar-white beaches, and colonial-era architecture. With a rich heritage blending African, British, and Caribbean influences, it offers a vibrant cultural tapestry.

Maldives – (Area: 298 sq km)

Credit: iStockSituated in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a tropical paradise comprising over 1,000 coral islands. Famous for its overwater bungalows, vibrant coral reefs, and azure lagoons, it is a dream destination for honeymooners, divers, and sun-seekers alike.

Malta – (Area: 316 sq km)

Credit: iStockLocated in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is an archipelago steeped in history, with a legacy that spans millennia. From ancient temples and mediaeval fortresses to Baroque palaces and azure grottos, this island nation offers a captivating blend of culture, heritage, and natural beauty.